To preserve the tranquillity of everyone’s experience, we ask that you fully ‘unplug’ from distractions such as work, politics, and the online world. At Shepherd’s Nine, we have the opportunity to leave the distractions of the world behind and to immerse ourselves in the timeless rhythms of nature.
When it is really necessary to use cell phone, laptop, etc., we have a few designated areas set aside, including outside on the green near the schoolhouse, in the dining room during non-meal hours, and inside in the cellar area in the front of the Farmhouse.
We do not expect to hear devices or see screens in any other areas of campus. The more we engage with electronic devices, the less we experience the depth of Rhythm.
Photography at the Pavalon or Rhythm Ground needs permission from the Rhythm Director.
Please note: Smoking is prohibited on Shepherd’s Nine grounds.
Tent and Cabin Living
Our tents have thick canvas walls and sturdy platform floors. Our few cabins are of varying sizes and have screen windows. They are provided with lamps, shelves, beds, blankets, wastebaskets, basins, cups, and buckets.
If you are in a tent, please help us by shaking out the tent flaps once a week or after rain. If you do not do so, you encourage mice to make nests and eat holes.
Small creatures look forward to your arrival because they know food is sometimes stored in tents or cabins. There is a campers’ refrigerator and an animal proof container in the cellar of the house where a small amount of personal food may be stored.
Lanterns should be kept away from tent flaps and should never be left unattended. Lanterns must be extinguished before going to sleep. Please refrain from using candles in tents or cabins.
Bathroom Facilities
Campers living in tents or cabins mainly use the the “Little House” down the hill towards the Pavalon, or “The Baths” nearer to the Farmhouse. There is also a small bathroom in the Farmhouse, mainly for use by the staff and house dwellers. Personal items such as towels, soaps and shampoos are to be carried in and carried out of the bathrooms by each camper so as not to clutter these communal spaces. You may do hand laundry at the Little House.
The Noyes Dress
Florence Fleming Noyes established the tradition of wearing tunics of varying lengths and colors. This costume reflects the Greek ideals of simplicity and beauty from which Noyes Rhythm takes its inspiration. The tunic is graceful in movement and can be as simple as two lengths of flowing material tied at the shoulders. Tunics are easy to make or you may borrow one when you arrive. Tunics are worn to all Noyes Rhythm classes and at all meals, except picnics.
For movement classes, please wear a leotard or similar underlayer with a tunic and, if cold, leggings and “woppity” (soft poncho). Solid, hand-dyed and non-patterned fabrics are preferred as they help us to feel more part of our natural surroundings. We shed our jewelry before movement classes to encourage freer movement, prevent injury, and protect the dance floor.
What to Bring
Dance outfits (tunic and leotard or t-shirt/camisole and dance shorts/leggings). Ideally in earth, pastel, or skin tones. See the Noyes Dress section above.
Comfortable layers for dancing and around camp.
At least one warm sleeping garment.
A raincoat or poncho and waterproof footwear.
If you plan to hike, it is recommended that you bring a pair of lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirt.
Non-slip sandals or sneakers.
A flashlight (and possibly lantern) and usual toiletries. Don’t forget insect and tick repellent. Kerosene lanterns are always on hand.
A bathing suit, a sweater, shorts and a top.
Bed linen and towels (Or, these may be rented from the camp for a small fee.)
For added comfort: your personal pillow and a mattress topper. We provide cots with a thin mattress, a pillow, and blankets.
Ziploc bags for electronics in our humid conditions.
Snacks for between meals. (but not to kept in your tent!)
